He added: “The self-employed now make up 15 per cent of the labour market compared to 13 per cent in 2008, and the vast majority of these workers made a positive choice to become their own boss.

“The research also shows that the self-employed are generally happy with their situation. Their reasoning is clear; being your own boss gives you the flexibility to achieve a better work-life balance, take on the work you want, and ultimately improve your general wellbeing.”